Ultimate 2024 Travel Packing List: What To Pack For Any Trip!

Bradley Williams
Written By:
Bradley Williams
Last Updated:
June 13, 2024
Knowing what to pack for travel can be a stressful task! Fortunately, our ultimate travel packing list will help you prepare for any trip you have planned.
travel packing list

After more than 5 years spent full time travelling around the world, we’ve built up a pretty solid idea of what to pack for travel.

Along the way we’ve also made PLENTY of mistakes! Like ...

  • Forgetting to buy travel insurance (I know right!)
  • Not having the right photography gear
  • Not taking enough warm weather clothing

Simple mistakes when packing for a trip can make a huge difference to your eventual time away.

That’s why I wanted to put together this epic travel packing list guide to help you make sure you've got the perfect travel gear, regardless of which trip you plan on taking.

I’ve included all of the top travel tips & tricks we’ve picked up over the years to help you not make the sort of simple mistakes we have.

Along the way, I’ve also included useful links to other sites where you can pick up most of the items mentioned in this list.

Feel free to skip to whichever section suits you best, or head right to the end to get our quick travel packing checklist.

Let’s get started ...

Note: Some posts may contain affiliate links. Read more in our Privacy Policy. Learn more about how we create and update content in our Publishing Guidelines.
Our #1 Thing to travel with!
Travel insurance tip
Psst!! ... Do you have travel insurance sorted?

Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing.

Why?

Here's a few reasons ...

  • They Cover for Covid-19
  • You can pause and restart policies each month
  • They are more affordable than many providers

For more info, check out my in-depth SafetyWing review.

Ultimate Last Minute Travel Checklist

Men's Packing List

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Women's Packing List

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Travel essentials

First aid

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Toiletries

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Documents

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Other

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Tech/gadgets

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Health & Safety

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Miscellaneous

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Other items to consider

Aftershave
Aftershave
Antimalarials
Antimalarials
Bandages & Tape
Bandages & Tape
Binoculars
Binoculars
Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker
Buff
Buff
Shorts
Shorts
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Collapsible Coffee Mug
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Travel Insurance
Copy Of Vaccinations
Copy Of Vaccinations
Deodorant
Deodorant
Diarrhoea kit
Diarrhoea kit
Disposable razors
Disposable razors
Document wallet
Document wallet
Driving license
Driving license
Dry bags
Dry bags
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo
Ear plugs
Ear plugs
Earphones
Earphones
Electric razor
Electric razor
Water shoes
Water shoes
Skirts
Skirts
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hanpdresso Coffee Machine
Hiking boots
Hiking boots
Hiking Socks
Hiking Socks
Hoody
Hoody
VPN
VPN
International Driving License
International Driving License
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jeans
Jorts
Jorts
Kindle
Kindle
Travel pants
Travel pants
Light jacket
Light jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight rain jacket
Lightweight Travel Towel
Lightweight Travel Towel
Local travel guidebook
Local travel guidebook
Massage ball
Massage ball
Dresses
Dresses
Memory card hard case
Memory card hard case
Hiking socks
Hiking socks
Moleskin Tape
Moleskin Tape
Money belt
Money belt
Mosquito net
Mosquito net
Multivitamins
Multivitamins
Needles and thread
Needles and thread
Packing cubes
Packing cubes
Paracetamol
Paracetamol
Passport
Passport
Perfume
Perfume
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Phone Sim Tray Opener
Photocopy of passport
Photocopy of passport
Plasters
Plasters
Playing cards
Playing cards
Playsuit
Playsuit
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Scissors/nail clippers
Scissors/nail clippers
Shampoo & conditioner
Shampoo & conditioner
Shawl
Shawl
Shirts
Shirts
T-shirts
T-shirts
Snorkel
Snorkel
Socks
Socks
Power bank
Power bank
Hat
Hat
Surf sunscreen
Surf sunscreen
Swim shorts
Swim shorts
Swimsuits
Swimsuits
T-shirts
T-shirts
Tank tops
Tank tops
Toothbrush
Toothbrush
Toothbrush travel container
Toothbrush travel container
Toothpaste
Toothpaste
Saree
Saree
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Trainer socks
Cap
Cap
Travel Cards
Travel Cards
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel pillow
Travel pillow
Travel Sickness Tablets
Travel Sickness Tablets
Tripod
Tripod
Travel trainers
Travel trainers
Tweezers
Tweezers
Underwater GoPro dome
Underwater GoPro dome
Waist bag
Waist bag
Wash bag
Wash bag
Waterproof phone case
Waterproof phone case
Flip flops
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Sunglasses
Worldwide Travel Plug
Worldwide Travel Plug

Choosing the right bag for travel

The first big packing decision you need to make is deciding which bag to take with you.

As a rule of thumb, we always each take two bags with us:

  1. A larger backpack or luggage case that holds the majority of our gear and gets packed way in the hold when flying
  2. A smaller daypack that’s used when out and about exploring or as a camera backpack
osprey day backpack

Choosing a larger backpack/piece of luggage

If ever we are backpacking, we always each take our larger travel backpacks, which are between 50 and 70 litres big.

This is tonnes of room to hold all of your travel gear no matter how long you plan on travelling for.

Based on our experience backpacking dozens of countries, I can confidently say that your go-to brand should be Osprey.

The majority of all travellers we see also have Osprey bags and there’s so many reasons why, including:

  • They are excellent quality
  • They have a massive range for both men and women
  • They are reasonably priced
  • They are strong and last a long time
  • They are comfortable for carrying long distances

Here are our 2 top recommendations:

Bradley's choice

OSPREY PACKS FARPOINT 70 (FOR MEN)

Cazzy's choice

OSPREY PACKS RENN 65 (FOR WOMEN)

Choosing the perfect day bag

A day bag is a great piece of kit, and one that gets a lot of use!

Nowadays, there are hundreds of different day bags out there to choose from, each one tailored to unique needs.

For example, we always have one more rugged day bag that’s perfect for hiking and wearing for long hours when out and about.

Our other one is specifically designed as an all-in-one day bag and even main travel rucksack if needed. It has the room to expand and contract depending on your needs, as well as an optional in-built wardrobe!

Read more about the Tropicfeel Shell backpack to see why we love it so much!

It’s perfect as it can fit both our laptops and a few other expensive pieces of kit.

Another great option is the Solgaard Lifepack. A 2-in-1 backpack designed for digital nomads who need to carry a mixture of work and lifestyle gear when travelling.

For longer trips, the Endeavor does a similar thing but offers even more space for clothes and even includes and expanding wardrobe! Read more in my full review of Solgaard.

Or, if you want something small and compact, that can be stuffed away when not in use, check out Loctote's bags.

Here’s the 2 day bags we recommend using based of our own experience:

Bradley's choice

OSPREY PACKS STRATOS 24

Cazzy's choice

Tropicfeel Shell backpack
Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

What about roll-on luggage?

Based on personal experience, I can confidently say that Horizn Studios offers the perfect array of roll-on luggage for all travels.

They are definitely more of a luxury carry-on brand. But though they cost a little more, they are also built to last so much longer than other brands out there.

It's a classic case of you get what you pay for, but if you travel a lot (like we do) then investing in good quality carry-on will pay off for years to come.

I love their M5 Essential, which comes in some really cool colours, and you can even ha e customised with your own monogram.

You can learn more about them in my in-depth review of Horizn Studios luggage.

Horizon Studios carry-on luggage

Final thoughts on picking bags for travel

On recent trips of up to 3 months, we’ve actually started taking just one large backpack between us, which has proven to be plenty of space for all of our joint backpacking gear.

And this is despite the fact that almost a third of that bag is taken up with diabetes supplies for Cazzy.

When we first started backpacking, we took far too much stuff with us, and have over the years got much better at taking only what’s needed.

There are a lot of benefits to sharing just one bag between two people, and if you plan on travelling with a partner, I recommend opting for just one bag as well.

Amongst other things, it forces you to think more minimalist and take only with you what you really need and will use every day.

If you're looking for a backpack and daypack combination that's waterproof, spacious and practical, then we highly recommend the Salkan.

We've conducted a full review on the Salkan backpack and daypack which you can find here, but I seriously feel it's a fantastic investment that will last you a lifetime of travels.

We've been using it for a while now across Canada and the USA, and it's great.

You might also like: Best Sustainable Backpacks
choosing a backpack for traveling
We took FAR too much stuff on our first trip!

Travel Essentials for women and men

I’ve broken things down here to help you organise your own trip packing list into more straightforward chunks.

Feel free to skip ahead if you’re looking for more info on a specific section.

Skip to:

Men’s Packing List

Here’s a look at all the items I might typically take with me travelling.

Of course, my exact backpacking packing list will depend on things like weather, time of year and religion (all mentioned back at the start of this post).

  • T-shirts
  • Evening shirt
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Jeans 
  • Long socks
  • Trainer socks
  • Hiking socks
  • Hoody
  • Trainers - Tropicfeel trainers are one of the best things to bring when travelling abroad for long periods of time, as they are an excellent all-round travel shoe. Here’s my full review of Tropicfeel and why I think they're great.
  • Hiking boots - Only include these in your travel packing list if you honestly think they will get regular use. We carried ours for 4 months around South America and they only got used twice!

Hot weather packing list items:

  • Jorts
  • Swim trunks
  • Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Flip flops - I recommend Reef, as they are excellent quality and great for wearing long distances. These were teh first backpacking gift I received, and I take them with me wherever I can

Cold weather packing list items:

  • Jumper
  • Evening coat
  • Wooly hat
  • Gloves
  • Scarf
tropicfeel shoes
Perfect for all activities when travelling

Female packing list

Here’s a look at the range of items Cazzy might take with her depending on the nature of the trip.

As you can see, her packing list is a bit different to mine ...

  • Water shoes - Absolutely ideal when packing for Thailand and other water-based destinations.
  • Sarong - Essential for covering up at religious sights and at beaches 
  • Hiking socks
  • Trainer socks
  • Stylish hat
  • Light rain jacket
  • T-shirts
  • Jeans
  • Long skirt - If you're travelling to Asia, try and pick up some locally made ones which are gorgeous and perfectly made for hotter climates. I picked mine up in India and absolutely love them!
  • Light trousers - Check out Buddha Pants for great lightweight travel trousers
  • Light jacket - I recommend checking out Apricoat for a great all-round weather and stylish lightweight jacket!
  • Trainers - Skechers or Tropicfeel are good choices as they are great for walking and for pairing with outfits. 

Hot weather items:

  • Playsuit or jumpsuit
  • Shorts
  • Sunglasses
  • Flip flops
  • Sun dresses
  • Swimming costumes/bikinis

Cold weather items:

  • Jumper
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • Cosy socks
  • Thick coat
  • Woolly hat
packing list for women
Cazzy always travels with a long skirt, in hot and cold climates!

First aid kit

A basic first aid kit is one of the most important things to pack for a trip.

We take a first aid kit with us on all trips and it contains all the basics you might need in case of minor injuries; including:

  • Diarrhoea kit
  • Needles and thread
  • Moleskin tape
  • Bandages & tape
  • Plasters
  • Scissors/nail clippers
  • Paracetamol
  • Tweezers
  • Antiseptic cream

Ready-made travel first aid kit

If you don’t yet own a travel first aid kit, then here’s a good option to buy.

It contains the majority of what you need and you can then just add in any other items you want to take with you.

Plus, it’s small enough to tuck away in your backpack and not take up much space.

Toiletries packing list

We tend to pick up some basic toiletries before we head abroad, as it can be expensive buying a lot of these in foreign countries.

If you’re heading on a backpacking trip of more than a month, then don’t take enough for your whole trip as it will add a lot of weight and increase your risk of a toiletry explosion inside your bag!

Here’s our typical toiletries list for when we travel:

  • Wash bag - Get one with a handle (like this one here) as you can then hang it up in almost all bathrooms no matter how cramped.
  • Shampoo & conditioner 2 in 1
  • Dry shampoo
  • 2 x toothbrushes
  • 2 toothbrush travel containers
  • Toothpaste
  • Disposable razors
  • Shaving foam
  • Electric razor
  • Small perfume
  • Small aftershave
  • Men’s deodorant
  • Women’s deodorant

Travel Banking

I think travel banking is a key part of any travel packing list and something that many people don’t really think of until they find themself in a foregin country paying exorbitant exchange fees!

Travel cards offering the best exchange rates are essential things to pack for travelling, so make sure you’ve got yours sorted!

To make sure we get the best rates everywhere and have enough cards in case one gets lost or stolen, we always take 4 travel cards between us.

  • 2 live in my wallet
  • 1 lives in my big rucksack
  • 1 lives in Cazzy’s big rucksack or day bag

That way, if disaster struck and we lost a bag or my wallet, then we always have a way to access more money and help us get home.

Which travel cards do we use?

As we’re from the UK, we use both Monzo and Revolut.

These are UK-based companies that (at least at the time of writing) aren’t available outside of the country.

So if you're from another country, do your research of local credit card companies ahead of time and try to find a credit cards that doesn't charge you fees on converting to foreign currencies.

Also look at what they charge for withdrawals.

Both Monzo and Revolut give you £200 of free withdrawals every month, and you then pay a 2% fee on any amounts above that.

With 4 cards between us, this means we very rarely pay any fees on withdrawals.

Most countries now take cards in all shops and restaurants so we just try to pay with a card whenever possible.

Getting setup with both these providers is dead simple, you simply download the app, fill in some basic details and then order your free card from within the app.

There’s more info in there about how the cards work and there’s options to upgrade to a monthly membership and gain access to reduced fees and other cool perks.

Read Also: Monzo vs Revolut: Which Is Best For Travel?

Important Travel Documents

Here’s a look at the final items that I would class as vacation packing list essentials.

  • Passport
  • Wallet to hold important documents - This has been a lifesaver for us! A simple plastic wallet that allows you to keep all important documents in one place, ready for when you need them.
  • Driving license and international driving license - If you plan on hiring a car or moped abroad, then make sure you pick up an International Driver’s Permit at least a month before you plan to leave. If you’re from the UK, then this can be done at The Post Office.
  • Copy of your passport - We take these just in case we were to lose our passports and needed some basic proof of our identity. Plus, if you ever need your passport details, then you can refer to these rather than getting your passports out.
  • Copy of your vaccinations - Some countries require proof that you have received certain vaccinations before they let you into the country. A big one is Yellow Fever, and we’ve been asked to show this at the border of a number of countries around the world. If you don’t have it, they may deny you entry.
  • Print out of your travel insurance - If you do have some sort of accident abroad, it’s worth having a print out of your policy in order to show doctor’s what you are covered for and help avoid paying fees there and then.
  • Travel insurance - Always, always, ALWAYS buy travel insurance before you travel. Sure, you may never need it, but if you do have a major accident abroad, without it you can be left stranded there with 6 or 7 figure medical bills. If you’re from the US, then SafetyWing seems to be a good option for quick insurance with good coverage. If you're from the UK, then Compare The Market is what I’ve found offers the best range for my sort of trips - Annual Policy with unlimited trips abroad, each one a maximum of 4 months long.

Cameras & Other Travel Tech

Over the years, we’ve started paying more and more attention to the types of tech we take abroad. Including blogging cameras, laptops, lenses, and more!

Not least because they help us to create epic travel content to share with you on the blog!

Here’s a look at what we take with us on a typical trip abroad and what to pack for travel if you want to up your travel photography skills.

camera gear when travelling

DSLR

This is basically a larger, more professional camera which you can then upgrade by purchasing a variety of different lenses. The DSLR we use is now almost a decade old, but still works incredibly well. If you’re serious about upping your photography game then a great place to start is by picking up a DSLR. You can then upgrade over time with a variety of lenses.

G7 X Mark II
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Check Price on Amazon

Handheld video camera

If you’re looking for an all-in-one handheld camera that allows you to capture great photos and excellent videos, then you really can’t go wrong with this camera. It’s so small and compact that we can take it on day trips no matter where we are, and don’t have to worry about it taking up too much space. And what’s great is that the sound recording quality is superb so it’s great if you plan on vlogging and editing cool videos together. 

GoPro Hero 8
GoPro HERO8 Black
Check Price on Amazon

Underwater camera / action camera

When we upgraded our GoPro from the Hero 4 to the Hero 8, we really couldn’t believe the difference in quality. The Hero 8 solves every issue we’ve ever had with its older counterpart and is now one of my favorite pieces of travel gear. It’s small and slim and doesn’t require a bulky waterproof case. The image stabilisation is out of this world, also it records high quality sound so can be used to record in far more situations. In terms of taking photos, the quality is okay, but it proves great for those fisheye selfies. You definitely need one of these (or one of the cheaper alternatives to GoPro) if you plan on doing any adventurous or underwater activities.

Drone

The popularity of drones has truly exploded over the last few years and they’ve gone from being a rarity to the norm at most popular tourist spots. We love our DJI Mavic Pro and take it with us everywhere (as long as it’s legal of course). DJI is the go-to brand for reasonably priced, superb quality travel drones. But if the price tag of the Mavic Pro or Mavic 2 is a little high, you can pick up a reasonably priced alternatives to DJI as well. Many of which have a similar spec but come in far cheaper.

Other Gadgets we travel with

unlocked phone
Unlocked Smartphone (with local sim)
Check Price on Amazon

What To Pack For Travel: Health & Safety

Beyond taking a basic first aid kit with you, there’s a few other health & safety items you may need to pack to keep you healthy when abroad.

These can include:

  • Important medication & supplies - For us, this takes the form of Cazzy’s spare type 1 diabetes equipment. It usually fills about a third of my big rucksack if all in one place so takes up a significant amount of room. One thing I will say is that if you have important medication as well, then be sure to split it up into two different places. So that, if one bag did go missing or gets stolen, then you have enough backup supplies to last you until you can replace those that are lost.
  • Mosquito repellant spray - If you plan on going somewhere hot, then pick up some great quality bug spray before you go. It’s not only for mosquitos, but can keep all other annoying insects at bay.
  • Plug in mosquito deterrent - We take one of these with us when visiting countries where mosquitoes are a real issue (aka most parts of Southeast Asia!). You simply plug this into the wall socket at night and it emits a high frequency sound to keep unwanted buzzing pests away.
  • Sunscreen - We’ve started taking more and more note of how damaging certain products can be. That’s why it’s worth picking up reef-friendly sunscreen as it’s nowhere near as damaging as typical sunscreens.
  • Antimalarials - Before visiting certain countries, speak to your travel nurse or search online to see which countries have malaria risk. We’ve needed tablets for many parts of Asia, as well as South America. We always opt for Doxycycline as, in the UK at least, it’s a lot cheaper and has never caused us any side effects.
  • Travel Padlock - To help keep your belongings safe, it’s worth picking up one padlock for every bag you have. They come in useful when staying in hostels where you need to lock your stuff away. They’re also great for when you need to store your luggage away in the hold at the airport or on a bus and you want to be sure no one is rifling through them. Be sure to get one that is TSA approved.

Miscellaneous Things To Pack For Travel

We’ve already covered most of our international travel packing list, but here’s a few other products that didn’t fit the categories above and which you may want to discover.

  • Fold down coffee mug - Saves space in your luggage whilst helping to cut down on your use of non-recyclable materials. (Check out Super Sparrow!)
  • Handpresso - I bought one of these for Cazzy on her birthday and she has never looked back! As someone who loves great espresso coffee, it’s an absolute game changer as she can indulge this pleasure no matter when in the world she is. If you’re a bit of a coffee snob as well, and want to save money on those daily coffee runs, then it can be a great investment.
  • Reusable Water Bottle- Great for the environment and super convenient
  • Worldwide travel plug - A must have travel item!
  • Pin to open the sim card hole on the phone - I keep a small metal one of these in my wallet at all times.
  • Dry bag - Great when out exploring places on water.
  • Quick drying towel - We take one of these on all of our backpacking adventures as they are small and quick drying so can be used when out and about for the day.
  • Playing cards
  • Earphones
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Packing cubes - If you’re limited in packing space, these are perfect for helping you to stay organised.
  • Money belt
  • Kindle - Personally, I just use the Kindle app on my phone to read books. But these are much more lightweight than packing physical books.
  • Physical books/travel guides - Sometimes it’s nice having the real thing!
  • Buff - This is a great piece of travel gear, it’s so versatile and can have dozens of uses when travelling. Such as helping you to block out light and noise in order to sleep when travelling. Or, for keeping dust and sand out of your face when out doing something adventurous.
  • Ear plugs - Essential if you plan in staying in hostels.
  • Waist bag - I used this all day every day when walking The Camino.
  • Multivitamins - It’s natural that as you travel your diet will suffer somewhat. It can be hard getting varied foods in you, so multivitamins are a great way to just make sure you’re getting a well-balanced array of nutrients and vitamins in your system.
  • Waterproof phone case - A cheap alternative to buying a GoPro, but only for less adventurous water activities.
  • Underwater dome for GoPro - Allows you to capture incredibly unique photos that are otherwise impossible.
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • Snorkel - If you are heading somewhere you’ll be doing a lot for snorkelling (such as The Philippines) then buying you brown can prove a lot cheaper and better.
  • Binoculars - For you nature enthusiasts who plan on going on safari or just doing a lot of nature watching out and about.
  • Travel pillow - Personally, we don’t use these as they take up a lot of space. However, if you plan on doing a lot of bus and plane journeys, then this could be a worthwhile compromise.
  • Mosquito net - We’ve never really needed one of these, but if you are staying in cheaper hostels in spots that are at higher risk of mosquitoes, then it could be worth taking with you.
standard luggage co

What NOT to pack for travel!

Here’s a few items that DON’T deserve a spot in your travel packing list!

  • A sleeping bag - Unless you plan on camping, then don’t bother taking a sleeping bag. We’ve never needed one on any of our backpacking journeys.
  • A stupidly big bag - Taking a ridiculously big backpack or suitcase with you travelling is bad because it encourages you to fill it with useless backpacking gear you don’t actually need. Sure, this packing list is long, but we probably only take half these items on any one trip, so as to save space and only take what we actually end up using.
  • Jewellery - Unless you’re going on a fancy holiday to somewhere with a safe to store your valuables, it’s not a smart idea to take lots of jewellery with you. One or two pieces that you wear all the time might be fine, but if you’re travelling for a long time then you’re at an increased risk of theft. If you are out and about with lots of tech or other valuables, pick up one of these anti-theft bags which can help better secure your belongings.
  • Too many white-coloured clothes - Based on experience, if you’re planning on travelling for a long time and clothes will all be packed away in a rucksack, then whites are not a good idea. They’re so easy to get stained and dirty, and will have to be washed more regularly or more thoroughly than coloureds.
  • Big towels - Every single hotel we have ever stayed in has provided us with towels, so the only towels we’ve taken is a light microfibre towel which is quick drying. If you’re in hostels constantly, then a big cotton towel is still a bad choice as it’s going to take up lots of room and never truly dry in a dank hostel room.
  • Lots of books - Again, unless you’re going for a relaxing holiday in just one place, then taking multiple books with you is not a smart idea. I do the majority of my reading from the Kindle App on my smartphone. I must admit, reading a paperback book is better than reading off a device. So I will sometimes have one paperback book with me, but after reading I then trade it in at the next hotel or hostel for another one. 
what not to pack when travelling
If a sleeping bag is required, you'll be able to hire one. Don't pack one! 

Our Top Travel Packing Tips

Before starting to pack, lay everything out

This is great because it allows you to quickly check through and make sure you haven’t forgotten anything before actually packing. You can also see whether your bags will realistically be big enough to store everything. You can also better create systems of how to compartmentalise all of your backpacking gear.

complete travel packing list
Packing for The Camino de Santiago!

Ask yourself “Do I really need this?”

Another benefit of laying everything out before you pack is that you can ask yourself: “do I really need this?”. One of the great things about travelling for long periods is that it shows you how little from your life back home you actually need to use every day. Plus, if you do suddenly need an extra pair of pants or something, you’ll easily be able to buy one abroad.

Make a separate carry on packing list

It’s worthwhile taking a few minutes to write out absolutely everything you think you may need on your flight. There's nothing worse than being 5 minutes into a long haul flight, suddenly realising you left something important in your hold luggage! For me, this always includes things like earphones, travel laptop, a jacket and snacks.

Pack valuables in your carry on

We always aim to keep as much of our valuables as possible in our carry-on bag. This includes things like our laptops and cameras. It’s nice having them to hand, knowing that they can’t get broken or stolen when being passed through transit in the hold.

Take double the supplies for important medication

One thing that you simply cannot afford to go light on when packing is any important medication or health supplies. With Cazzy’s type 1 diabetes equipment, she always takes at least 2 or 3 times the bare minimum she will need. This covers against any unforeseen event, such as insulin getting frozen, equipment being broken in transit or stuff getting stolen.

It’s worth paying a little more for quality gear

If you plan on doing a lot of travelling in coming years, then it’s worth spending a little more on top quality bags, shoes and camera equipment. It actually saves you money in the long run, as you otherwise may need to constantly replace broken and worn out equipment. It also makes for a much more enjoyable travel experience overall. 

Fill every crevice

Rather than just placing items into your bags, think strategically about ways to save space. A big one is filling any open spaces with smaller items. For example, if you have spare shoes in your case, then stuff smaller items inside, like socks.

packing list for traveling
You'd be amazed at how much you can fit in...

Always leave a little space

Based upon what you have packed, do you think there will be space to pack any souvenirs you pick up along your travels? It’s always nice to pick up small trinkets and souvenirs to remember your trip, but you have to realistically have enough space in which to fit them and bring them home!

Pack a couple of carrier bags in the bottom

Stuff will naturally get dirty as you travel, so we always include a couple of carrier bags or bin liners within our bag. That way, we can quickly throw any dirty shoes or wet clothes into these and keep them away from everything else inside which is nice and clean.

Well, that’s about it!

This ultimate travel packing list should be all you need to plan virtually any trip around the world!

Of course, everyone is different and will require key things when abroad, so be sure to draw up your own packing checklist and include those things important to you.

If you think I’ve missed anything key then just drop a comment below!

You may also be interested in checking out the destination-specific packing lists we've put together, including:

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